CRYONANO
Cryogenic Dipstick – Precision Liquid Level Detection
A Cryogenic Dipstick is a simple, robust instrument for direct measurement of liquid cryogen levels in dewars, storage vessels, and cryogenic systems. It provides a reliable, low-cost method to determine how much cryogenic liquid — such as helium, nitrogen, or other boiling cryogens — remains in a container without relying on complex electronics or external instrumentation.
Key Features & Benefits
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Accurate Liquid Level Indication: The dipstick registers the liquid level based on thermal signatures that differ between cryogenic liquid and cold gas above it. When immersed into the cryogen, the change in thermal response at the liquid surface helps identify depth quickly and visually.
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Rugged Construction: Built from durable stainless steel with a fine diaphragm or seal at the tip, the dipstick is designed for repeated use in low-temperature environments.
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Extended Length Options: Typical dipsticks are available in lengths suitable for standard laboratory and industrial dewars (e.g., ~1.5 m), making them suitable for deep tanks and large storage vessels.
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Simple Operation: There are no electronics or powered components to install. The unit is manually inserted into the cryogenic liquid and withdrawn to read the frost line or thermal indication, which corresponds to the liquid level.
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Low Thermal Mass: Designed to minimize heat introduced into the cryogenic system, reducing boil-off and preserving stored liquid.
How It Works
When a dipstick is lowered into a vessel containing cryogenic liquid, the thermal interaction between the probe and the liquid causes localized cooling. Once removed from immersion, a visible frost line forms approximately at the liquid surface, enabling quick visual estimation of fluid depth. This passive technique makes the dipstick an intuitive and maintenance-free solution for level checking.
Typical Applications
Cryogenic Dipsticks are widely used in:
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Laboratory cryogen storage and handling
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Helium and nitrogen dewars
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Cryogenic research facilities
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Industrial cryogenic tanks
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Systems where simple, direct level indication is needed without instrumentation